Top 10 Handheld Gaming Devices in 2023

Don’t lose your gaming progress when you’re out and about or nowhere near your PC. Use a handheld gaming device to play anytime and anywhere. Check out selections for the best handheld gaming devices in 2023!

1. Nintendo Switch

Nothing beats the good ol’ reliable Nintendo Switch. It’s one of the best handheld gaming devices in 2023 and beyond! You can choose from three models and gaming modes when playing.

The original Nintendo Switch and the OLED models have the following features:

• Play modes – TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
• Joy-con controllers available
• Handheld device size
• Battery life is 4.5 to 9 hours

However, the OLED model has a leg up over the original model since it has a LAN port and a bigger storage space (64GB).

Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch Lite is available handheld only with a 7-hour battery life.

If you’re buying the Nintendo Switch Lite, it doesn’t come with the Joy-con controllers. However, if you decide to buy the original or OLED models, you can customize your Joy-con controllers and bring them along with you.

As for buying games, you can buy a physical copy or buy online in the Nintendo store. However, not all games are compatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite.

2. Steam Deck

The online game distribution service has also released its handheld gaming device, so you don’t have to stay on your PC all day.

The Steam Deck has three storage options with two screen types, two being OLED (512GB and 1TB) and the other one being LCD (256GB). It comes with an advanced AMD chip, allowing you to enjoy performance on the best online games on the market. 

The service guarantees faster downloads on your handheld gaming device, so there are fewer wait times! Plus, you don’t have to worry about overheating it since it has a fan to cool the device during gameplay. Finally, the trackpads provide comfort, so your hands don’t strain all day long!

3. Logitech

Logitech is no longer just a computer peripherals company. It has also tapped the gaming market with the Cloud Handheld Gaming device. This is ideal for multi-console gamers since they integrate the Xbox and Steam Link apps without losing gameplay on any consoles. 

Like other handheld gaming devices on the list, you can play AAA games without fail or delay. Play anytime, anywhere, without losing progress! You could also play it for up to 12 hours if you keep it under optimal conditions (50% battery and brightness). It has an internal 64 GB storage, but you can expand it to add more games! Plus, it comes with the state-of-the-art Quantum Snapdragon 720G chip and boasts an Octa-core CPU!

4. ONEXPLAYER

If you’re looking for a Windows-operated handheld gaming device, ONEXPLAYER is one of the best options for avid gamers. ONEXPLAYER offers three different devices:

• ONEXPLAYER 2 Pro
• ONEXPLAYER MINI PRO
• ONEXFly

The MINI PRO comes in three models with the processor being different. This model offers affordable options among the others. However, if you want more than just a gaming device, The 2 Pro model will also help you get work done! Finally, the ONEXFly promises performance and personalization to help you get the most out of this device.

It’s one of the most expensive handheld gaming devices on this list, but if you want a supercharged gaming experience, investing in this isn’t a bad idea.

5. GPD

If you want various gaming device options from one company, GPD should be on your radar. One notable feature of this device and its models is the attached keypad. This allows you to browse the internet and play games without switching devices. Additionally, you can dock your GPD device to a computer for enhanced gameplay.

Like ONEXPLAYER, GPD is on the expensive side. However, you can opt for the Android-powered modular device to play your favorite games anywhere for a cheaper price.

6. Pimax Portal

Are you looking for an all-in-one 4K and VR handheld device? Pimax Portal devices should be on your list! The Portal boasts 4K LCD screens on two devices. On the other hand, the QLED has additional MiniLED lighting, providing better contrast and color to your gaming experience. The storage space is at a maximum of 256GB for the Portal and Portal QLED devices.

You can play games supported by cloud, Android, and VR games. Plus, go back to your childhood to play retro games!

7. Ayn

Ayn is a gaming device that resembles other handhelds on this list. However, it packs a punch with the processor and the operating system. One advantage of Ayn over some devices listed here is customization. Plus, their flagship, Loki MAX, can store up to 512GB worth of games, making it the most expensive device in their catalog. 

However, there are cheaper Loki models. Plus, you can also consider the Odin models with the same capabilities as the Loki MAX, but the processor makes it two distinct models.

8. Ayaneo

Do you want diverse options on how you want your handheld gaming device to appear? Ayaneo has you covered with various models. They have five models, with some having variations.

All Ayaneo models are powered by AMD Ryzen, the best of the best in gaming processors, except for the Pocket AIR. You can check out the various models and see for yourself which is the best handheld device that fits your needs.

9. Evercade

Evercade will take you down memory lane because this is a nostalgic handheld gaming device on this list. You insert cartridges, similar to old Gameboy models. It doesn’t have high-resolution screens, but it’s an ideal device for those who want to relive their childhood by playing games. You can play over 300+ games that will transport you back in time.

10. ASUS ROG Ally

The ASUS ROG Ally is another Windows-operated handheld gaming device that will enhance your gaming experience and let you play all day long. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about playing hours, considering they have an ergonomic playing set-up. 

One advantage of ASUS ROG Ally over other handhelds on this list is you can connect it to your TV and play multiplayer games with friends and loved ones! Or, you can even plug it into your computer for an even better experience. Finally, you can play games from Epic, Xbox, Steam, GOG, and other major publishers to get updated with the latest games.